Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that’s both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying! These Red Velvet Sugar Cookies are a perfect blend of rich cocoa flavor and vibrant red color, making them an irresistible addition to your dessert table. Soft, chewy, and rolled in a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to elevate your mood!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 12 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As your oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture will form the backbone of your cookies.
- In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Next, add the large egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture. Mix everything together until all ingredients are well blended, resulting in a vibrant red batter.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the batter tender.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Once formed, roll each ball in powdered sugar for that signature sweet finish.
- Place the rolled dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft — they will firm up as they cool.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a touch of almond extract along with the vanilla. If you prefer a deeper red color, feel free to add a bit more red food coloring. And remember, these cookies can easily be dressed up with cream cheese frosting for an added indulgence!
Cooking Techniques
When measuring your flour, make sure to spoon it into the measuring cup and level off with a knife for accuracy. This technique prevents your cookies from becoming too dense. Also, be mindful of your mixing — overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Finally, allow your cookies to rest on the baking sheet before moving them; this helps them maintain their soft, chewy texture.
FAQ
Can I refrigerate the dough?
You can certainly refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours! Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling and baking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage!
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Sugar Cookies are an absolute treat! Their rich flavor, soft texture, and vibrant appearance make them a delightful addition to any gathering. So go ahead, bake up a batch, and share them with friends and family — or keep them all to yourself as a well-deserved indulgence!